There’s nothing like a black evening gown. It’s classy, retro and very versatile. It can be worn simply, with diamond earrings and a bracelet, or with more accessories for a playful look.

While Coco Chanel created the first “little black dress” in 1926, being the first one published in Vogue, Audrey Hepburn brought the iconic look to life.

First little black dress

Courtesy Photo

Coco Chanel little black dress

Courtesy Photo

Known for her role as Holly Go-Lightly in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” Hepburn helped make it a wardrobe staple for women when the film was released in 1961. In the film, Hepburn was adorned in diamond jewelry, and giving the look a feeling of decadence.

Courtesy Photo

Audrey Hepburn

Regardless of how the dress is styled, structured black gowns show sophistication. The classic look was updated with the addition of a cut-out style, which shows a little more skin for a sexier look. The trend was popular on the red carpet at Met Gala 2013.

Strappy black high-heeled pumps pair perfectly with the dress, to add height and lengthen the silhouette. Grab a black chiffon wrap, beaded clutch and sunglasses for that Tiffany’s-inspired look.

Courtesy Photo / Stylit

Evening gown

Since diamonds are a girl’s best friend, sparkling accessories are a must. Earrings, a bracelet and a ring add instant Hollywood glamour to the ensemble.

When wearing a black dress, it’s good to match your makeup to the look. Keep it simple and stick to black shadow for the lids; curl your lashes and add some black mascara so your eyes pop when the sunglasses come off. If you’re feeling bold, go for the red lipstick –though nude lip color is great with this look.

Actress Carey Mulligan wore a structured cut-out black gown to this year’s Met Gala. While her dress was a bit shorter, she spiced up the look and made it her own with a strappy pump and diamonded bracelet.

Published by stephaniesokol

Writing, music and photography and fashion are my favorite pastimes. I am a journalism and music graduate from Oakland University. I like to laugh and enjoy a cup of tea, when I'm not finding new music or hanging out with friends. I also like baking, hiking, thinking deep thoughts and traveling.
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